"This is a book that gives more and more with each edition. Drawing on a wide range of experience and literature, it has now been substantially revised and its insights will be valued by many in the community development field." Marilyn Taylor, Institute for Voluntary Action Research
“This third edition is to be widely welcomed, exploring key changes in the contemporary context, together with their implications for networking as a community development strategy.” Marjorie Mayo, Goldsmiths, University of London
“Alison expertly reviews different approaches to our field using the foci of networking and connectedness to explain her ways of thinking about community work. A ‘must read’ book.” Alan Twelvetrees, Community Work author and consultant
"This new and extensively updated edition provides important insights into continuity and change both in communities and in community development theory and practice. It is an invaluable resource in challenging times." Angus McCabe, University of Birmingham

Alison Gilchrist is an independent consultant and research fellow at the University of Birmingham. She has worked for almost four decades in community development as an activist, practitioner, trainer, researcher, policy advisor and manager.